Today, Hull’s first council-supported warm spaces will open their doors. Venues include Jubilee Church in Hull city centre, libraries, St Michael’s Youth Project, and the Community Trust, which will be utilising space at the Freedom Centre. Warm spaces are buildings where people are welcome to spend time and enjoy some company for free – some also offer warm drinks for no charge. All council-supported spaces have safeguarding policies in place and have agreed to a charter focussed on mutual respect and safety.
The council’s warm spaces scheme launched earlier this month and it is hoped many more organisations including charities, faith groups and residents’ associations will apply to take part. Successful applicants receive funding to help them implement their warm space plan, and applications can be made online quickly and easily.
There are further warm spaces throughout the city which are already operational, including churches and community spaces.
Cllr Ross, leader of Hull City Council, said: “It is horrifying that in the 21st century we are even having to consider schemes like ‘warm spaces’. In this day and age everyone should be able to stay warm in their own home.
“But sadly, the cost of living crisis means the creation of council-supported warm spaces has to be part of our action plan.
“This is a national crisis and only national action will solve it. But locally we are determined to do what we can to help people through it wherever we can.
“We have worked quickly and closely with groups in the voluntary, community and business communities to ensure that people across the city have a warm space to turn to.
“The council and other organisations have worked collaboratively to ensure warm spaces are safe, welcoming and inclusive. With the first wave opening on Monday, our next priority is encouraging more organisations and businesses to come forward, so we can ensure a range of provision throughout the city.
“My thanks go to all those who have stepped up and are willing to be part of the scheme”.
The development of an interactive map, which will be updated in real-time to show all warm spaces around the city is currently in its final stages and will be live on the council website soon.
Today also sees the launch of the Winter Warmth Community Grants scheme, facilitated by voluntary sector organisation Forum and supported by Hull City Council. Groups such as charities, faith groups and residents’ associations are able to bid for the grants. The scheme offers grants from £1,000 to £10,000 to be used to support residents to stay warm and well over the winter, covering through to the end of March 2023. Suitable projects could include warm clothing banks, running activities in warm space venues, and funding for items like electric blankets, or slow cookers.
Funding for warm spaces is provided by Hull City Council, with the community grants scheme funded by donations from local businesses including £50,000 from Fortem, which installs energy-saving measures in homes, and £33,000 from regeneration specialists Efficiency North .
Apply to register as a warm space here: Register for Warm Spaces – Hull City Council
Apply for a Winter Warmth Community Grant or request more information: jane.thompson@nbforum.org.uk. All applications must be made by November 14.
If your business is able to donate either funds or other support, email: business.engagement@hullcc.gov.uk
